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Former deputy premier targeted in blackmail scam

Former Deputy Premier Andrew Stoner was targeted in a global extortion attempt before he left public office.

The ex-Nationals leader cited personal reasons when he left the NSW ministry last October.

He later told police he fell victim to a blackmail attempt through social media site Linkedin.

AAP understands Mr Stoner was targeted by a scam based in west Africa that has netted multiple high profile people.

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The extortionist demanded money from Mr Stoner and he reported his experience to NSW Police.

It is understood to be one of several similar cases the Robbery and Serious Crime Squad is investigating.

The Nationals MP, who held several portfolios – including trade, investment and tourism, stepped down from the ministry last October and left politics at the March poll.

Stoner cited wanting to spend more time at home with his family as the reason for leaving politics.

“After talking with my family, I made this decision in order to allow me to spend more time at home in the immediate future whilst enabling the new Leader of the NSW Nationals to stamp his own personal brand on the party,” he said at the time.

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