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A man was charged with several counts of fraud and blackmail as part of an investigation into 'romance fraud'.

Merseyside Police said Ivan Nkazi, from Gateacre, was arrested at home after a warrant was executed by the force yesterday.

The 31-year-old was charged with six counts of fraud by false representation and three counts of blackmail, as part of an ongoing investigation.

He has been remanded in custody to appear in Liverpool Crown Court this morning.

'Romance fraud' is the practice of setting up fake profiles on internet dating sites to gain someone's trust before asking for money or personal information.

Action Fraud, which is run by the National Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting Centre, warns fraudsters can use 'romantic' conversations to extort money or enough information to commit identity fraud.

If you think you may have been a victim of romance fraud, you can report it to Action Fraud online or call 0300 123 2040.