try m2s, so far we are the elite pvpers in the game. However we might not be as "polite" as you are looking for. Also there is 62nd, RG. NOt really pirate corps but they are pvp corps. Not much for mercs for hire in game yet as they are not needed.

M2S has guys round clock, etc. Id go check out M2S, 62nd, RG and see who might suite you better, if not goodluck in your hunt.

If you could ransom someone that would be awesome but it'll never happen with current game mechanics. Smacking after killing a miner is short lived no matter who kills it.
People do like to bring up past wins and loses however to make themselves feel better when they're losing.

Please take a look at FOOM.  We are new comers compared to some of the others here in the thread.  However, we are definitely growing and adding to our capabilities.

Our focus is getting to pew pew.  We do not hold stations at this time and our PVP is roams into other peoples' territories.  So far we've gotten some very cool fights.

FOOM does look for people who are Vent users.  Most of our members are US time zones.  We do have a forum.  One thing we do look for is some common sense and critical thinking in recruits.  We don't just want lines of zombies looking for direction from above.

If you are interested, you can take a look at our recruitment ad or hop into chat channel "DPS Recruit" in game and speak directly to a recruiter.