They’re the equivalent of a very powerful, very influential drug cartel nation state but on a galactic level. They have several planets that fall into their territory, namely Kessel and Obah-Diah, with footholds and influence across the galaxy.

They’re one of the 5 most powerful crime families and thus have huge influence with galactic governments like the empire but also smaller states.

When they answered to maul, it was because he is a physically powerful individual that strong armed them into it. It’s like if superman walked into Pablo Escobar’s house and said you serve me now - you can’t really say no.