Is it permissible to search a housemaid before she travels if it is suspected that she stole the contents of a trust placed with you?

The basic principle is that it is not permissible to violate the privacy of others without a legitimate religious reason. Sheikh Ibn Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy on him, was asked about searching a maid without her knowledge, and he replied that it is not permissible, explaining that it involves betrayal, and that the default is to assume good intentions. He gave an example that the mistress of the house would not be pleased if such a thing were done to her.

However, if it is highly probable that the maid has stolen some household items, or if there is something that raises suspicion about her, then it is permissible to search her belongings before her departure. But if it is merely a suspicion with no evidence or strong probability, then it is forbidden to do so.