A MAJOR manhunt that closed off parts of ­Edinburgh city centre has led to the detention of a man suspected of stealing a motorbike.

Police cordoned off roads surrounding Cockburn Street, off the city's Royal Mile, on Saturday night after the man ran on to the roof of a building while being pursued by officers.

Witnesses on social media reported seeing a police helicopter circling above the capital's Old Town, and told of serious traffic delays.

Police Scotland said its helicopter was sent out to assist in their search and streets were cordoned off as a precaution.

The force also dispelled rumours that the incident was gun related, saying: "At no time was this a "firearms incident" and no firearms officers were deployed to the scene."

The incident began with police receiving reports of a motorcycle being driven dangerously around the city.

At around 8pm officers spotted two men running off from them and a stolen motorbike was recovered nearby.

One of the men ran on to the roof and was detained, while the other managed to escape.

Superintendent Angus MacInnes said: "There were clear risks and challenges due to the height and size of the building and our response aimed to manage the risks and to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

"A positive line of enquiry is being followed as we continue to trace the other suspect."