The gang said 10 of its members were allegedly ripped off for a total of $1 million by former Kenthurst art dealer Ron Coles(pictured).

Fraud detectives have been investigating Mr Coles after receiving more than 150 complaints from art collectors and investors from whom he allegedly disappeared with more than $30 million in paintings and cash.

After Mr Coles's hiding spot on the Central Coast where he drives taxis to make ends meet was revealed by the Sun-Herald last week , a senior member of one of the state's largest outlaw clubs threatened his safety. The club member said it was waiting for police to charge Mr Coles before it took action.

``It's going to be a better option for us if he's in jail,'' the member said. ``It doesn't matter where he gets sent, we can get to him once that happens. It'll be easier to work with him inside there.''

Mr Coles allegedly owes 10 gang members $80,000 to $100,000 each. Several of them even lent him money when he hit hard times last year. They were not the only underworld figures Mr Coles had left in the lurch, the member said.

``He's sent a lot of people sideways and some of them are not people you want to get on the wrong side of.''

The member said the gang was aware of Mr Coles's movements.