Victoria Police have caught out an international fugitive who had applied to become a protective services officer (PSO).

Fairfax Media is reporting that Richard Chichakli is wanted by American authorities over allegations he helped a convicted arms dealer.

A Victoria Police spokeswoman says the 53-year-old was identified as a person of interest while going through the PSO screening process.

He was arrested in Melbourne on Thursday and faces extradition to the United States.

PSOs have been introduced by the Victorian Government to provide protection and security at Melbourne railway stations.

The police say they conduct stringent background and identification checks as standard practice for anyone applying for a job as a PSO.