The Dutch used the strategic and vital bridge in Tasikmalaya to gain access to the town of Ciamis.

At the time, the Dutch were struggling to regain control over Indonesia after the Proclamation of Indonesian Independence in August, 1947.

Once in Tasikmalaya supported by heavy weapons and armored vehicles, the Dutch moved to strike at the Karang Resik Bridge.

[2] By the time the Dutch forces arrived, however, the bridge was destroyed by the Indonesian military.

[4] Despite the Indonesians' far less advanced weapons, with no tanks or armored vehicles, they forced the Dutch to retreat into Sindangkasih.