The organisations that include Greenpeace Africa say campaigners have received direct threats that include accusations of treason, death threats and anonymous phone calls.

The government in DR Congo launched an auction of licensing rights and promised that the environment would be protected by using modern technology.

Nine of the oil blocks are in the huge “central basin” rainforest and peatlands region in the west of the country and plans to drill in the area have been controversial.

A petition to end oil and gas development in the country launched by non-governmental organisations ahead of the auction has attracted more than 100,000 signatories.

President Felix Tshisekedi says oil and gas production will allow the country to reduce its reliance on mining.