A fugitive Colombian gang leader believed to be behind a $1.9 million theft in Malaysia has been arrested in Thailand.

The suspected ringleader, identified by the Thai Immigration Bureau as 'Miguel', 39, reportedly targetted a wealthy businessman in Kuala Lumpur, stealing valuables worth around $1.9 million on May 31.

Though Malaysian police captured seven of the suspects, Miguel allegedly evaded arrest and fled across the border into Thailand.

Songkhla Immigration Bureau said they received information from Malaysian authorities that Miguel had arrived in Songkhla province, and was en route to Bangkok to plan his escape into yet another neighbouring country.

They traced his location and arrested him at a luxury hotel in Bangkok's notorious Sukhumvit red-light area.

Police raided his room and found necklaces, rings, bracelets, and other jewellery believed to be stolen property.

Speaking at a press conference on June 18, Immigration Bureau officers said Miguel allegedly revealed his identity during interrogations.

He was said to have entered Thailand illegally.

Miguel was reportedly tight-lipped during questioning and refused to divulge information about his alleged criminal activities.

Authorities also found that Miguel was part of a gang that rented a car to steal property in Thailand in 2010. His name had been listed on the Immigration Bureau's watch list.

Miguel will face charges for illegally entering Thailand. He is set to be extradited to Malaysia to face raps for the Kuala Lumpur theft.