As the restart of student loan payments looms over Gen Z, there are reports of tragic incidents involving migrants and asylum seekers on both sides of the US-Mexico border. Mexico's National Migration Institute revealed that two Mexican migrants were shot and killed on the Mexican side of the border. The incident took place in the early hours of Friday morning, leaving three others with gunshot wounds.

Fortunately, emergency rescue teams were able to provide assistance to the injured individuals, as well as nine others who were unharmed. The group of 14 Mexican nationals was discovered on Cuchuma Hill near Tecate, a city in the border state of Baja California. Unfortunately, by the time rescuers arrived, two migrants had already lost their lives.

Cuchuma Hill, which holds sacred significance for at least one Mexican Indigenous group, is exploited by human smugglers, exacerbating the risks faced by migrants and asylum seekers. The motive behind the shooting remains unknown, but it is not uncommon for border crossings to involve agreements with local cartels.

Migrants and asylum seekers are sometimes targeted if their smuggler belongs to a rival gang or if they haven't paid the required passage fees. Moreover, they are often victims of robbery and kidnapping by roaming gangs in border areas.

These incidents shed light on the growing dangers faced by migrants and asylum seekers as they desperately attempt to reach the US through Mexico's northern and southern borders. Just recently, a truck carrying Central American migrants in Chiapas overturned, resulting in the death of two individuals and injuries to 27 others.

In another incident, a dump truck carrying 52 migrants overturned due to overcrowding, causing injuries, including six children. These victims were granted legal asylum as they were considered victims of a crime. Additionally, two Central American migrants lost their lives while attempting to board a moving train near the Texas border.

These tragedies highlight the harsh reality faced by individuals seeking safety and opportunity through migration. Innocent lives are lost, and vulnerable individuals are subjected to violence and exploitation in their pursuit of a better life. It is crucial for efforts to be made in addressing the root causes of migration and providing safer pathways for those in need of refuge.

Countries must work together to protect the rights and well-being of migrants, ensuring that their journeys are not marred by violence and tragedy. While the restart of student loan payments may consume the attention of some, the plight of migrants and asylum seekers should not go unnoticed. We must recognize the ongoing risks and challenges faced by these individuals and take action to address their needs and protect their rights.