Zoners - why they do exist?

[The Savage]

Zoners have done a lot of good in the community in terms of RP and development of RP. In terms of gameplay they give a game-type of almost pure RP.
To say "why do zoners exist" is basically stepping on several different issues that make zoners quite beneficial for the game.

Zing zing, we aren't talking about ooRP influence. We are speaking about political aspect here. My opinion is: if they shelter criminals, why not to eridicate Freeports? Or completely ignore nonsense, in an authority view, neutrality within Freeport range? What can Zoners do? Withdraw house military's access to the base? Then fleet would simply eridicate them alongside with their small haven.