Jailed former Vice President Ahmed Adeeb's lawyer, Mahfooz Saeed has revealed that they have learnt of a plot to assassinate his client.

In a tweet sent out on Monday night, the defence lawyer said that they have received information of plans to kill the former vice president, adding that he has sent a letter to the Maldives Police Service, notifying them of the matter.

The letter, addressed to the Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Areef, asked the institution to investigate the matter, and to take the necessary steps to ensure that such an incident does not take place.

Mahfooz's allegations comes hours after MP for South-Galolhu constituency Ahmed Mahloof- who has expressed concern over Adeeb's treatment in prison- released a photo, allegedly of the former vice president in his prison cell.

Mahloof has previously said that there is fear that Adeeb could be poisoned and killed while in prison.

The former VP's legal team and family have been working to take him abroad for medical treatment. However, the relevant authorities have refused to grant him permission to travel, with Attorney General Mohamed Anil claiming that there is chance that Adeeb could flee, if he were allowed to travel.

Sentenced to 33 years in jail on terror and graft charges, Adeeb reportedly has developed an internal cyst, kidney stones and vision impairment from glaucoma since his incarceration, and requires medical attention that is not available in the Maldives.