Among the Somali Pirates: Codes of Conduct, Life on Land

With rusted AK-47 rifles slung across their backs, the emaciated, barefoot pirates cruise the vast waters off the coast of Puntland, Somalia, into the Gulf of Aden in decayed motorboats, like sharks hunting their next meal These small bands have captivated the world's recent headlines and news cycles, with at least 79 attacks on boats in the past year, collecting an estimated $150 million in ransom money.
Today there's joy and anticipation for the family of cargo ship captain Richard Phillips. He's headed home to Vermont after being held hostage for five days by the Somali pirates.
These men, some teenagers, have managed to hold the world's most powerful navies at bay in a sophisticated operation far surpassing the outward, antique appearance of their tools.
They have also made one of the most essential shipping lanes in the region arguably the most dangerous route of passage on Earth.
Watch the story and exclusive video of the pirates tonight on "20/20" at 10 ET ..more.http://abcnews.go.com/2020/story?id=7361346&page=1