An underworld kingpin accused of planning a complex escape from a maximum-security prison has had his civil case delayed after officers allegedly discovered pills and other contraband inside his cell.

George Marrogi is suing Victoria's Department of Justice in a bid to improve prison conditions, including greater access to open air, arguing for more freedom while in custody.

The case was set to proceed to closing arguments in the Supreme Court today but was halted when the department's barrister Liam Brown SC argued the contraband allegations should be put to witnesses who had already given evidence in the trial.

The court was told that on September 17, Marrogi was found with several contraband items in his cell, including a phone with a charger, three screwdrivers, and 51 heart-shaped

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